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I chuckle. “I’m glad you like it.”
After I settle the bill, I hand Lace my business card with my cell number written on the back. We walk out of the diner, and I pull my coat tight around my body to block the chill.
Lace pulls her hood over her head and shoves her hands in her pocket. “Thanks for the meal and for listening.”
“You’ll call if you need anything?” I ask, hopefully.
She shrugs. “Sure.”
Lace glances around cautiously and turns toward the alleyway. “Bye, Ms. Parks.”
I give a small wave. “Bye.”
I walk briskly to my car, my mind, and heart at war with each other as I watch that poor girl walk away unprotected again. I unlock my car, drop into the drivers’ seat, and pound the steering wheel with my fist.
Your dad and Hugh will freaking throttle you, but you can’t leave her out here alone to fend for herself. She’s just a baby. Lace is all alone in this world and has NO ONE to protect her. Who’s going to save her?
Mind made up, I throw the car in drive and slowly head into the alleyway, pulling up beside a startled Lace. I roll down the window. “Get in, you’re coming with me.”
“It’s nice of you to offer, but I c-c-can’t.” Her voice wobbles. “I’ll put you in danger. I can’t do that to you.”
This girl has no idea how stubborn I can be. “My dad is a General in the Marines. He can help protect you.”
“How?”
“You let me worry about that.”
My mind races with how I’m going to protect this girl. A plan forms… First thing, I’ll drive us down to Quantico, Virginia, and speak face-to-face with my father. He’ll know what to do.
I square my shoulders and give Lace my bestMomlook. “‘Get in the car, Lace. You already took the biggest step you could with getting away from those monsters. Now, take the next step, and let me help you.” I raise my brows when she tries to interrupt. “I promise, my dad is the best.”
“Okay.” A tear slides down her cheek. “Thank you.” She opens the car door and slides in.
“Put on your seatbelt,” I say. “Let’s get out of here.”
I check my rearview mirror to make sure I’m not being followed. Once I’m sure it’s safe, I head home. I want to grab my gun, just in case we run into trouble, and grab a few things before heading to Virginia.
Me: Making a pit stop at my house
Annoying Boss: I’ll have Jansen meet you.
Me: No need. Literally running in and out. It’ll take 5 min.
Annoying Boss: Text me when you’re on your way back
Me: Not coming back today
Annoying Boss: WHAT????
Me: Heading to Quantico. Call later with deets
Annoying Boss: I want hourly updates. This is not up for debate. I mean it
Me: Sir, yes sir
Annoying Boss: Smartass. Remind me again why I don’t fire you
Me: Because you love my sunny disposition